Security Council renews mandate of UN mission in Libya

The Security Council has extended the mandate of the United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) for one year.

In a resolution unanimously adopted on Thursday, the Council welcomed the positive developments in Libya, including the 7 July 2012 national elections.

It also welcomed the establishment of the General National Council and the peaceful transfer of authority from the National Transitional Council to the first democratically constituted national unity government.

Ambassador Lyall Grant of the United Kingdom, one of the five permanent members of the Security Council told reporters that the UN has a vital role in supporting Libya rebuild its institutions after 42 years of misrule.

"In just over two years since the start of the revolution in Libya there has been remarkable progress towards a democratic transition. The presence of Prime Minister Ali Zeidan here today is testament to that. But, as he has just told the Council, there remain a challenge for Libya to overcome, above all in the security sector, which is why today's " resolution simplifies the arms embargo in Libya to enable the government to more effectively equip and train their police and defence forces." (31")

The Security Council resolution also calls on the Libyan government to promote and protect human rights, including those of women, children and people belonging to vulnerable groups.